Tear off thick stems and place greens in clean sink. Cover with water. Sprinkle a small amount of salt over greens and stir. Allow water to settle a few minutes. Carefully lift out greens and place in a colander or large bowl.

Return greens to sink and cover with water again. Allow any remaining grit to settle and unplug drain so that water runs out.

Tear large leaves into pieces and place in a large stockpot, Dutch oven or saucepan with a lid. Without shaking off too much water, add greens to pan, along with whole, dried red peppers. It is okay to pack the greens into the pan. Cover pan with lid and place over medium heat. Cook just until leaves wilt and greens fit easily into pan.

Add just enough water or chicken stock to almost cover greens. If desired, add salt pork. Bring liquid to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until greens are tender, about 30 minutes. Stir in sugar during last 10 minutes of cooking.